LSA Celebrates: National Interpreter Appreciation Day
Today (and every day), we take a moment to honor the vital role interpreters play in breaking down language barriers and facilitating clear communication across diverse communities. Interpreters do more than translate words — they convey meaning, emotions, and cultural nuances, ensuring that every voice is heard and understood.
As we celebrate this important day, we’re excited to share stories from a few interpreters. These stories highlight the passion they bring to their profession and showcase the profound impact they have on people’s lives. Their contributions are invaluable — and today, we say thank you.
JOSEPH
Read more about Joseph's experience →
One touching experience I had while interpreting was connecting with a Haitian woman who had recently immigrated to the USA. Despite the language barrier, we bonded over shared cultural experiences and struggles.
Through interpretation, I was able to help her navigate various aspects of her new life, providing support and encouragement along the way. Seeing her gain confidence and integrate into her new community was truly inspiring.
— Joseph
NHU
Read more about Nhu's experience →
I chose to become an interpreter to reconnect with my love for languages. During nearly eight years working in this field, I have seen the power of interpretation countless times.
There was one particular call I still remember. Before I rendered the service, I was kindly informed by the therapist that the patient’s spouse refused to work with other interpreters during their marriage counseling sessions. However, the warmth of my voice and the accuracy of my interpretation gradually convinced her. She started to open up and share her feelings and thoughts. By the end of the long session, many of their misunderstandings were resolved and her marriage reached a new level of acceptance and reconciliation.
After that call, I became a strong believer in the power of interpretation. May this journey of helping others bring so much more love, inspiration, and motivation in the world around us all.
— Nhu
JACOB
Read more about Jacob's experience →
I've been passionate about interpretation since high school, which is why I chose it as my career. I love breaking down communication barriers.
— Jacob
STEFANY
Read more about Stefany's experience →
Interpreting became one of my greatest passions because it gave me a purpose: "to become the voice of the unheard." I started working at LSA in 2020, a year that changed the course of humanity; especially for us medical interpreters. Even though I had previous experience interpreting, where I had witnessed beautiful moments like the birth of a child, as well as terrible moments like having to break the news to someone with cancer, I believe there was no training that could prepare us to face a global pandemic.
However, there is one story in particular that I will never forget: after several months of working tirelessly worldwide, as a united front to try (to the best of our abilities) to win the battle against COVID-19, I took a call. At the end of the call, the doctor took a moment to thank me for my services, but not in the almost automatic way that we usually get. He actually took a moment to acknowledge me as a human being, he said, "Most of the time, as doctors, we forget that there is an actual human being on the other side of the line, that is also helping us fight Covid-19. You are also working as hard as we are, but we are the ones getting all the credit. However, we couldn't do this without you. Interpreters are the unsung heroes of this pandemic."
— Stefany
ESTHER
Read more about Esther's experience →
Working as an interpreter has always been life-changing for me. More importantly, it teaches me empathy, kindness, and to be a voice for others who can't make themselves understood. Having a good grasp of my culture also makes it easier to comprehend patients.
— Esther
FERNANDO
Read more about Fernando's experience →
Personally, I think being an interpreter is awesome. Knowing that I'm doing my best to help people, no matter if it's something good or bad, big or small, I get to be that bridge for people. Even though it is sometimes a big responsibility, it feels great! Seeing all the people you helped at the end of your shift is very satisfying and fulfilling. I could not ask for a better job. I feel blessed and very happy!
— Fernando
JYOTIRMOY
Read more about Jyotirmoy's experience →
I would like to share a story where I was on a call with a patient who was on the verge of delivering her baby. Given it was an emergency situation, I was careful to use a comforting tone while being vigilant of the minute details that may arise that needed interpretation. Even though the patient was not able to deliver her baby, I was able to support the client as well as the patient until the patient had been stabilized.
These scenarios, where I've been able to help someone in need, have given me a good feeling about the work I do.
— Jyotirmoy
DAVID
Read more about David's experience →
It's great to know that some providers recognize my voice and service. I can now say that I recognize one or two because of where they are calling from and how they communicate with both the LEP individual and interpreter. It's great to be recognized!"
— David
Josias
Read more about Josias's experience →
My story is about the longest call I've ever had. A video call that lasted 9 hours and 38 minutes! It was a feel-good story because of the outcome. It started with the patient in the ER with a case of kidney failure. They moved the patient to the ICU. At one point the doctors thought they would have to start dialysis on the patient. However, as the day progressed and the treatment started to work, the kidneys recovered to the point where that wasn't necessary anymore. In the end, the patient was taken out of the ICU. It was good to experience the entire process and see the effort from the doctors and nurses that assisted the patient. Additionally, it felt really good to be part of the entire process through my skills!
— Josias
REGINE
Read more about Regine's experience →
In the bustling world of healthcare, where every word and connection matters, I found my calling
as a Haitian Creole interpreter. It's not just about translating words; it's about weaving understanding and empathy into every conversation.
One particular experience stands out vividly. I was interpreting for a young Haitian immigrant who was apprehensive and uncertain about this new land. Through the magic of Video Remote Interpretation (VRI), I was able to bridge the gap between their native Creole and the medical jargon, transforming anxiety into reassurance. But before we settled into the serious matters,
there was a moment of unexpected fun. As the video call connected, there was a brief, comical mix-up with the camera angles, resulting in an unintentional close-up of my nose! With a laugh, I quickly adjusted the camera, and we all shared a lighthearted moment before diving into the
appointment.
Reflecting on my journey, I realize that the true essence of interpreting lies not in the
technicalities but in the smiles exchanged, the fears eased, and the lives touched. I find fulfilment
in those moments of shared humanity, knowing I've made a difference, one conversation at a
time.
So, here's to the power of interpreting, the unspoken connections it forges, and the countless lives
it enriches. As I continue this vibrant journey, I carry the joy of bridging worlds and knowing
that every thread matters in the tapestry of languages.
— Regine
CARLOS
Read more about Carlos's experience →
Interpretation to me is a learning tool. The people communicating learn what is needed to achieve their goal. It could be lifesaving information or just a simple diet plan. Personally, interpretation has changed my life. I remember how I used to almost feel afraid to answer or make a call to a company. I am not quite over my fear of Video Remote Interpretation. I think people don't want to see this old man staring at them... 😆
Interpretation makes me feel good because I get to help other people. I am able to fill that "gap" in their life.
I love hearing "Gracias mi hijito eres una bendicion de Dios."
— Carlos